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Infection control guide available from Canadian committee

Posted April 1, 2009

An infection control guide sponsored by the Canadian Committee on Antibiotic Resistance is intended to reduce risks of pathogen transmission among small animal veterinarians, their clients, and their patients.

"Veterinary clinics can act as reservoirs of human and animal pathogens and play a role in dissemination of infectious agents including antimicrobial-resistant bacteria into the general population, with potential effects on humans and animals," the guide states. "Veterinary personnel also face an inherent risk of zoonotic disease from contact with both healthy and ill animals."

The 71-page document includes best practice guidelines for surgical site management, use of personal protective equipment, disinfectant use, and attention to proper laundry practices, as well as what to do in suspected rabies cases.

The CCAR is a collaboration of not-for-profit organizations and government entities. The guidance document is available at www.ccar-ccra.com/english/home-e.shtml.

The National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians' infection control document, Compendium of Veterinary Standard Precautions for Zoonotic Disease Prevention in Veterinary Personnel, and a model infection control plan for veterinary practices are available here.